Foreign Relations of the United States, 1961–1963, Volume XVI, Eastern Europe; Cyprus; Greece; Turkey

288. Telegram From the Embassy in Cyprus to the Department of State⁰

Nicosia, August 27, 1963, 3 p.m.

130. I saw Makarios this morning for first time since returning to Cyprus from US. During past three or four weeks Makarios has made number of statements touching on difficulties flowing from Constitution and treaties indicating need for change. Press has seized upon these statements for wide speculation.

This morning I found Makarios relaxed and confident that Greek and Turkish Cypriots would eventually be able solve their current problems. He was doubtful, however, if Turkish Cypriots or Ankara would be willing to make any arrangement right now. For this reason Makarios thought he might be forced to take unilateral action, but believed Turkish Cypriots would in end see merit in his suggestions for changes and accept them.

I commented that I thought he was on wrong track in handling matter in this way, adding that it would seem wiser quietly to make some arrangement behind scenes with Turkish Cypriots and with Ankara. I also said that it seemed to me recent statements to press made it more difficult to make such arrangement as they hardened attitudes. I recalled our support for continuing validity of Constitution and treaties, as stated last April and subsequently (Deptel 74),¹ subject to normal change by agreement between parties.

I also said that on my way back to Cyprus I had stopped off briefly in London, Athens and Ankara and had heard many observers in each capital express belief that Greek and Turkish Cypriots would yet find solution among themselves.² I suggested to Makarios that he have another talk with Kutchuk and also arrange conversations with Turkish officials in Ankara.

I strongly urged that such talks be held without publicity. Possibility of success would thus be increased. Makarios was dubious if Turks were now in mind to talk, but said that he would discuss matter with Clerides who was returning in few days and would find some way of probing situation with Kutchuk and with Turkish officials in Ankara.

I strongly urged Makarios to make sincere effort along these lines. I believe I made some headway this morning in persuading him to make another quiet effort with Turkish Cypriots and with Ankara, but Makarios is firm believer in using press for purpose of negotiation; consequently it remains to be seen how far he will go in seeking quiet talks with Turkish Cypriots and with Ankara.

Wilkins

0. Source: Department of State, Central Files, POL 15–5 Cyp. Confidential. Repeated to Athens, Ankara, and London.
1. Document 286.
2. Wilkins’ talks were reported in telegram 655 from London, August 8 (Department of State, Central Files, POL 27 Cyp), telegram 245 from Athens, August 12 (ibid., POL Cyp), and telegram 198 from Ankara, August 14 (ibid.).